Miaoli Sanyi Huoyanshan Nature Reserve

Information

Date of Proclamation	June 27, 1986
Size of Area (ha)	219.04
Primary Object for Protection	Cliffs, canyons & Tenasserim Pine (mason) pine trees
Scope of Administration	Da-an Creek compartment No.3
Authority in-charge-of	Forest District Office

Origin

The name of “raging mountain” is common amongst local mountains. It is meant to typify the scorching sun, bold mountain tops & constant attacks by torrential rains. When viewed from afar, during the sunset mountain tops look like fire. Huoyan Mountain in Sanyi, Miaoli one is most well known.

The mountain range of the reserve divides Taiwan’s northern & southern meteorological zones. Of geological interest are canyons, layers of gravel, falling pebbles and underground streams formed after years of erosion, landslides and foundation collapses of the original laterite plaeau cut away by the Daan Creek flow. The region is of high academic research value due to the presence of Tenasserim Pine (mason) pine trees. The Council on Agriculture officiated the “Miaoli Sanyi Huoyanshan Nature Reserve” in June, 1986.

Location

At the crossing of Sanyi Township & Yuenli Town in Miaoli County; compartment #3 has total of 219.04 hectares. From the southern end of Daan Creek all the way to the northern tip Baishatun [White Sand Beach]. The main peak measures 600 m high there is a local highway to the east, a coastal line to its west, hilltop highlands to its north & adjacent is Daan Creek and Houli Township, Taichung County. The reserve is situated on Taiwan’s western coastline.

Take Sanyi overpass, via Jianfong freeway and drive south about 4 km, turn right on Sinjhongmiao #6 country road, arriving at Huoyanshan [Raging Fire Mountain]. Hike onward on the cobble path. Or, from the southeastern corner of the reserve, hiker’s trails are also available.

An Introduction

The mountain is a free-standing range. To the south are plains and to the north are hilltop highlands. It is constantly fogged-in & there is high humidity due to southwestern monsoons. It is hottest in July when the average temperature is 34.5°C, and coolest in February when the average temperature is 12.1°C. Humidity averages 86%. Yearly rainfall averages 1,800mm most of which falls during July and August.

Soil formed mostly of Quaternary Period sand & gravel and is rich in iron, thus exhibiting a reddish brown color [like fire-flames]. In-between the plains & cliffs, cobble lye runs in a strip like a river. Best view is on the southern end, looking toward the northern tip.

Local scenery is to be savored & taken-in very slowly, to fully understand the mighty powers of the Creator’s. This is particularly true of the spectacular dusk & dawn. The rays of the setting or rising sun strike the reddish brown cliff walls. This is an unmatchable vista anywhere else on earth.

Biological Resources

The reserve features a rich population of vegetation & plant life. Tenasserim Pine (mason) pine trees grow in cracks on cliff walls, serving as the host forest. Other Taiwan Acacia, Pteridophytes and are all worthy of protection. The thickest Tenasserim Pine (mason) tree diameter measures 60cm, one of the survivors from a previous forest fire.

Total of 129 species of animals have been identified, categorized by habitat as follows:

• Cobble land:wide & sunshiny; main inhabitants are insects like the locust families.
• Cliff walls: main inhabitants are spider families & squirrels.
• Foliage forest: main inhabitants are the nectar-seeking butterfly families and birds like bulbuls & parrots.
• Valley wetland: main inhabitants are the butterflies; insects, amphibians, reptiles are also present, such as dragonflies, locusts & frogs. Something special is the discovery of the “spotted tiger fish.” They build nests & the males are responsible for protecting the eggs, interesting for ecosystem learning.

Conservation Results Till Now

The essential goal is to protect the natural scenery, under circumstances that manmade disturbance can be minimized. The area is of high academic research and instructional value.

There are serious threats the natural habitat. Guard stations & barriers/fences should be built and the total area should be divided into two separate parts: a core area & a buffer zone. Chicken wire must be put-up to prevent illegal sandstone forging & land excavation. Warning signage currently available has proven to be totally ineffective. Regular patrols should be set up and exterior classroom sessions are required. Tracking of local mason pine tree population is also an important task that should be done.